Donald Teuma-Castelletti
BRYSON Sept. 29, 2018
Pontiac families had the chance to play, design, shop and dine at the Bryson Recreation Association on Saturday, all while learning about unique resources available in their communities to help them succeed at home and school.
The Comité 0-5 ans Pontiac held their 2018 Family Expo all Saturday, featuring vendors, games and more, while showcasing tips and tricks for raising a happy and healthy home.
With visits from members of Paw Patrol, a Nerf gun range, stamp-making with Get Art, a cup stacking challenge, reading tent and obstacle course, plus more, there was plenty to keep the children occupied.
Meanwhile, parents could speak with members of the committee to learn of various resources available to them or get some simple tips for preparing for school.
“Instead of presentations, this year we have more interactive tables,” said Lisa Corrigan, a coordinator with the group.
She explained that this casual atmosphere meant parents could pose questions at their own pace, and according to their needs, while not attending an entire talk.
Corrigan headed the table on early language development for young children, offering guidance on how parents can incorporate healthy growth in their homes.
Next to her table, Julie Fleury offered advice on packing waste-free lunches for school children, as well as promoting healthy body image from a young age. Fleury, a healthy lifestyle transformation office for the committee and Pontiac en Forme, said it is important to teach children from a young age to accept their differences, while breaking away from gender stereotypes.
For example, young girls are often referred to as pretty instead of strong, teaching them that they are meant to be one way, and not the other.
By referring to them as strong as well, girls will become more likely to embrace their own bodies than to feel ashamed of them.
Sharing a table with Fleury was Danielle Chevalier, also of the Comité 0-5 ans Pontiac. Her spot featured the literature that the group distributes, including free magazines full of information on raising young children. She explained that this literature is just one way the group aims to teach families, and that more personalized questions are always researched by members to best help the parent.
While the event was meant to feature a number of vendors, many cancelled unexpectedly last minute. However, kids still had the chance to enjoy the many activities, including a firefighter’s challenge in the afternoon. As well, families could enjoy a Thai lunch with Shawville’s Chez In joining the fun.
